Warwickshire Police’s Commercial Vehicle Unit gets national award

Warwickshire Police’s Commercial Vehicle Unit (CVU) has received a national award from Highways England.

The award was given in recognition of officers in achieving ‘Top Performing Force’ in the country for Operation Tramline in 2019.

During Operation Tramline, officers use a specially-adapted HGV ‘supercab’ owned by Highways England to observe driver behaviours in all vehicles and deal with any offences on Warwickshire’s road network.

The award was given on August 7 in the presence of Chief Constable Martin Jelley, PS Stafford, PC Russell and PC Blood by Marie Biddulph, Highways England Assistant Regional Safety Coordinator.

Marie said: “Operation Tramline could not operate without our police partners and we are very grateful to forces such as Warwickshire Police for the dedication of their officers in helping us to tackle dangerous driving on our roads.

“The number of offences recorded by the force sadly confirms that there are people who are putting themselves and others at risk by ignoring the law.

"We hope that through our continuing partnership and use of the supercabs we can encourage all motorists to think about their driving.”

Speaking for the team, PS Carl Stafford said: “Operation Tramline is about keeping people safe on our roads.

"We are delighted to be recognised by Highways England for our work in identifying those people who pose serious danger to themselves and other road users.

"It would not be possible without the dedication of a small number of passionate officers, our special constabulary and support from our partner agencies

Led by officers from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, the new Commercial Vehicle Unit is financed by Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Seccombe’s Road Safety Fund.

Chief Constable Martin Jelley said: “I am proud of the work the Commercial Vehicle Unit is doing to improve public safety on Warwickshire’s roads.

"This award is further recognition of what can be achieved by a small team that has made a big impact in a short space of time. Improving the public’s safety on our roads will remain a priority for the force.

"Warwickshire Police would like to thank Highways England for their ongoing support.”

PCC Philip Seccombe said: “I am delighted that the CVU’s efforts, and the increased focus and investment to improve road safety in the county has been recognized.

"Operation Tramline continues to show the volume of offences being committed on our major roads network and the importance of policing them effectively.

"We are very fortunate to have such a knowledgeable and dedicated team here in Warwickshire so I am pleased to add my congratulations for their continuing efforts.”

The CVU in turn showed their appreciation of the help from Highway England’s Marie Biddulph over the years by presenting her with a bouquet of flowers.